Construction began following 2019–2022 contracts with Samsung Heavy Industries for a series of 15 Arc7 LNG carriers. Due to the 2022 sanctions, Samsung supplied only the hulls and equipment for the first vessels. Ths tanker was included in US and Ukrainian sanctions prior to its launch. The "Arctic LNG 2" project has been under pressure since 2023, but the vessel was commissioned.[3]
The tanker was launched in the dry dock of the SSK "Zvezda" and underwent gas trials.
On December 24, 2025, the tanker was handed over to the operator "Sovcomflot" with the participation of President Vladimir Putin.[2] On December 29, the vessel embarked on its first voyage to the "Utrenny" terminal in Gydan.[3]
Design
The Arc7-class vessel can independently navigate through ice over 2.1 meters (6ft 11in) thick using the Double Acting Ship mode (moving stern-first).[1][4]
The hull is reinforced for Arctic conditions with cryogenic tanks operating at −160°C (−256°F). Three azimuth thrusters (azipods) provide maneuverability in ice. The azipods were produced at the "Sapphire" facility (SSK "Zvezda"). The design is based on the Samsung 172 Yamalmax (SN2366).[1]
Operational activity
The tanker operates for the "Arctic LNG 2" project. It performs 2–3 voyages per month in winter (carrying 250,000 tons of LNG), addressing logistical challenges in the Ob Bay. Transshipment in Murmansk is possible.[4]
Alexei Kosygin is the lead vessel of the series. At least 15 vessels are required for the project.[4]
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